HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Four labor unions say they will back Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann in his bid to become Hawaii's next governor.

Hawaii's Sheet Metal Workers Local 293, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District 50, Drywall Tapers Finishers Local 1944, and Operating Engineers Local 3 believe Hannemann would enhance the chances Oahu's rail system will be a success.

"What Hawaii needs is a governor who has the experience and track record of initiating big projects and making things happen," said Lynn Kinney, Business Manager and Treasurer of District Council 50.

The unions who gave their endorsements today are among the 12 that signed the Rapid Transit Stabilization Agreement last year. The deal is supposed to ensure there will be no work slowdowns or stoppages.

Hannemann says he will officially declare in May. He already has the backing of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO), the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and Iron Workers.

Neil Abercrombie also has several endorsements, including the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and the National Association of Social Workers, Hawaii Chapter, Laborers' International Union, Local 368.